Democratic Congressmen Shirk Fundraising Obligations

Many senior House Democrats have proven unwilling to fork over cash from their own campaigns to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) as their party requires, according to records obtained by The Hill.

Every lawmaker is supposed to pay dues to the DCCC, the party’s campaign arm, during each election campaign. The committee establishes different amounts for each member, based on his/her seniority, fundraising ability, and the congressman’s cash needs for his/her own re-election.

At this point, more than halfway through the 2012 campaign, five Democratic ranking committee members and one deputy whip have offered a big goose egg to the DCCC. Another six ranking members have shelled out less than 25 percent of what they owe, according to dues sheets obtained by The Hill that cover through Feb. 29.

Pennsylvania Rep. Robert Brady was hoarding $750,000 in his campaign coffers, while providing nothing of the $250,000 he owes the DCCC.

Other lawmakers have less money in their campaign accounts but have yet to meet their DCCC obligations.

Michigan Rep. John Conyers, who faces a primary challenger, and Minnesota Rep. Collin Peterson also have given none of the $250,000 they owe, The Hill reports. New York Rep. Louise Slaughter, who will face a strong GOP opponent in November, has dispensed just $60,000 of the $500,000 the DCCC wants from her.